June 2, 2014

To Whom It May Concern:

This spring I observed Kaitlyn Suddendorf in her student teaching placement at
Grand Haven High School. Successful completion of this placement qualifies Ms.
Suddendorf for her special education endorsement in working with students with
Cognitive Impairments (CI). She worked with cooperating special education
teachers, Deb Stanley (high school resource room) and Jeff Troupe (high school selfcontained CI classroom). This placement involved working with a diverse population
of students, including those with health impairments, emotional impairments,
learning disabilities, and cognitive impairments from mild to severe.
During a period of ten weeks, I observed Ms. Suddendorf three times as she
presented a lesson to her students. For each lesson she prepared a well written,
detailed lesson plan. I observed lessons in the areas of Math (Geometry), Merit
Math (Equivalent Fractions), and Social Studies (rules). Ms. Suddendorf was
consistently well prepared and knowledgeable as she presented her lessons. She
appeared comfortable and confident as she interacted appropriately with each of
her students. Her lessons were appealing to her students. She utilized the
available classroom technology. Ms. Suddendorf became familiar with the individual
needs of each of her students and adjusted her lessons accordingly. Her lessons
were particularly creative and hands-on. She used a variety of assessment tools to
determine her students needs and gains.
Kaitlyn Suddendorf used the classroom management system effectively. She set
clear expectations and dealt with her students in a consistent manner. She
developed a wonderful relationship with Ms. Stanley, cooperating teacher, as well as
with the paraprofessionals and other educators on their team. Ms. Suddendorf
attended staff meetings and IEPs. During the six weeks of assuming full time
responsibility for her classroom, she was respected by students and teachers as a
professional. She developed meaningful relationships with her students. I would
describe her as particularly creative and enthusiastic as well as responsible and
committed to education. Her midterm and final review reflect exemplary strengths
in areas of inquiry, collaboration, and personal and professional qualities.
In conclusion, I highly recommend Kaitlyn Suddendorf as she continues to pursue
her goal of becoming a Special Education teacher. Her caring nature, creativity,
professional enthusiasm, and focus on excellence in planning and instruction make

her a wonderful teacher candidate. She would be a great addition to any school
staff.
Sincerely,
Carol Frifeldt MEd University Field Coordinator Grand Valley State College of
Education